01.08.2014 Hell

Wacken Open Air XXV

Wacken (Germany)

(Pentax K-5 with Sigma AF 70-200mm 2.8 EX DC APO HSM II)

Hell is a band from the English Nottingham having passed a very changeful history. Already in the beginning of the 80ies they tried to establish themselves in the music business influenced by the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal with a significant more progressive alignment. Because of their lyrics related to occultism they were counted to the founders of occultism metal. But except some demos there were no other releases to that time so that they separated after falling through of their first album contract in 1987.
Andy Sneap had the idea of the reunion in 2008 and so with the new singer David Bower the first album “Human Remains” was released which was quite well accepted by the reviewers. 2013 followed the second album “Curse & Chapter”, nad of these two albums songs were played this evening. It was quite well filled inside the Bullhead tent when the five guys entered the stage completely aflamed by red lights. Singer David Bower gained from his acting background (he was more known as theatre and tv actor) as he was immediately able to spell a cast on the audience. Vocally and musically it was very good and appreciated by the people with loud applause. After a little bit more than one hour this occult mass was over and the people went on to the main stages where Slayer was just warming up.
The focus of the lyrics was somehow unusual but the very good music and the fascinating show was a worthwhile eyecatcher which you should put onto your list of bands you need to listen to.